Lebanon Reflections from Lanna

Returning for the second year was like going to a family reunion; the site was familiar, lots of hugs and smiles for everyone and my continued comments of how all the boys had grown.  I knew what to expect as far as food that we would eat and the inconvenience of using bottle water to brush our teeth, etc., (how spoiled Americans are) and the lack of air-conditioning (again-spoiled).  Not only was I excited to see the boys again but also looking forward to spend time with Sarah, Jeremy and Thad and to experience a Lebanese wedding.

Les and I got to stay with the Boucher’s on this trip, so it was great to spend extra time with them even though we were exhausted by the end of the day.  Thad’s smile always warms the heart.  The wedding was a fun experience to witness different customs (like the bride coming to the wedding in her gown; car driven by grooms’ family with lots of honking of horns and lots of fireworks during the reception).  Our team and the boys were much needed in preparing for the wedding.  (Brent’s mother said it wouldn’t have happened without us).

I am so thankful for Sheila and Tim’s vision and allowing God’s guidence to return to Lebanon with a team from Calvary.  Their love for the Middle East is spreading among our church through donations, prayer and items purchased for the boys at Dar El Awlad.  I wish you could have been there to see the look on their faces when they opened their shoes and read the letters that you wrote.  They were so proud of their letters and pictures from families in America that cared for them and loved them through our Lord Jesus Christ.  They wanted to know more about you and if we knew you.  This ongoing relationship between Calvary and Lebanon has no boundaries, especially working with the Lebanese Baptist Society which opens up many opportunities through their seminary, SKILD summer camp and social work areas.  Maybe we are a part of the global Body of Christ.  Looking forward to the future!

Blessings,

Lanna Palmer